Forty Years of Exjet

Written by Rob Dowell, Managing Director · May 2026

This May marks a very special milestone for me and for everyone connected to Exjet as we celebrate 40 years in business.

Reaching 40 years is both a proud and meaningful moment. It gives us the opportunity to reflect on where Exjet began, how far we have come, and the people who made that journey possible. Exjet was founded by my parents, whose vision, courage and hard work laid the foundations for everything the business is today. Although they are no longer with us, their spirit remains part of Exjet every day. Their values, determination and belief in building something lasting continue to guide us and remain at the heart of the company.

I joined Exjet in 1998 as part of the site team. My father believed it was essential that I learned the trade from the ground up and developed a real understanding of the industry at every level. That experience shaped me profoundly. It gave me a deep respect for the practical skills, discipline and commitment required to do this work well, and it taught me the importance of earning that understanding first-hand. Twenty-eight years later, I find myself leading the company, and that makes this milestone especially personal to me. I feel incredibly proud to have played a part in Exjet’s journey and to have seen the business grow, adapt and evolve while staying true to the principles on which it was built.

My father, Colin, had a favourite saying: “solutions, not problems boy.” It was a simple phrase, but it captured a great deal about the way he approached life and business. That mindset has stayed with me and continues to shape the way we approach our work at Exjet today. It reflects a practical, positive attitude, a willingness to face challenges head-on, and a determination to find the best way forward.

For me, this anniversary is not only a celebration of the business, but also a tribute to my parents’ legacy. What they started 40 years ago has grown through dedication, resilience and a commitment to doing things the right way. I know they would be incredibly proud to see Exjet still standing strong and continuing to evolve.

I am also deeply grateful to the current management team, who have been instrumental in the success of the business, and to our site staff, whose hard work, skill and dedication play such an important role in everything we do. Together, they have helped drive the company forward and build on the strong foundations first put in place all those years ago. Their contribution has been invaluable, and much of what we are celebrating today is thanks to their effort, professionalism and shared commitment to Exjet’s future.

This milestone is also an opportunity to thank everyone who has been part of the Exjet story over the past four decades — our team, our customers, our partners and all those who have supported us along the way. It is through that collective effort and loyalty that we are able to celebrate this moment.

As we mark 40 years this May, I do so with pride, gratitude and optimism. We honour the past, recognise those who have helped shape our journey, and look ahead with confidence to the future of Exjet.

“Solutions not problems boy, Solutions not problems”

Rob Dowell

Managing Director